This is a bad position -- he should stand while she sits.
Massage is one of the best things you can do for another person, but if you don't use proper techniques, you'll be the one needing a massage. Casual massage, and spot massage in particular, can put undue stress on the hands and related body parts. Take the time to do it right so that everyone can benefit.
Don't Work in a Bad Position
This position puts undue stress on the thumb. Lay the client down.
Don't be tempted by laziness or emotional appeals to give a spot massage in an improper position; it puts an extreme amount of pressure on the fingers and wrists by preventing the therapist from using body weight and correct movements. For example, sitting on a sofa with a person's feet in your lap as they lay across the seats is absolutely the wrong way to give a foot massage. The therapist should sit across from the person on which they are working.
Fists and Hand Positions
Use the tip of your finger correctly, in line with the fist.
Don't be tempted to dig into a muscle knot with an extended finger or thumb; this puts dangerous pressure on the thumb and finger joints. Use the tip of the thumb, while keeping the thumb aligned with the fist as if making the letter "a" in sign language; this way, you can still work the thumb into a small area for spot massage. Alternatively, you can curl the index finger around the thumb tip and use the thumb to support the finger as you apply pressure with the second joint of the finger.
Stronger Limbs and Body Surfaces
Another bad position. Sit straight in the chair and stand behind it.
Ideally, massage strokes should use the large body muscles. Your strokes should come from the shoulders, waist and hips rather than the fingers or wrists. Whenever possible, it is best to stand when you work so that you can use your body weight to stroke and to apply pressure. The knuckles of a fist, or an elbow, can apply pressure to a surprisingly small area for a spot or trigger point massage. Even the knee can be utilized on a client in a prone position.
Massage Tools
Elbows can be used effectively for spot massage.
Using massage tools is a great way to continue work on a single spot or area. Repetitive work on a confined area is particularly stressful on the hands and arms of a therapist, but the use of tools greatly alleviates this pressure. Wooden tools are not recommended as they will absorb oil and sweat, and will be hard to clean. Wooden tools can also crack or become rough over time, scratching or leaving behind splinters. Plastic tools are inexpensive, sturdy and hygienic. Plastic tools can be sterilized with cleansers or in the dishwasher, or discarded if the price is not prohibitive. Some plastic tools will even glide smoothly on the skin without the application of oils or lotions.
Tags: spot massage, apply pressure, area spot, body weight, fingers wrists, position puts